As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s no better time to bring the beauty of autumn into your home. One of the most charming ways to do this is by crafting a beautiful Maple Leaf Table Runner. Inspired by the Reflections of Autumn fabric collection from In the Beginning Fabrics, this project captures the essence of fall with its rich colors and intricate design.
The Perfect Fabric for Fall
When we first laid eyes on the Reflections of Autumn fabric collection, we knew it was the perfect match for this project. The depth of color and the way it captures the essence of fall is simply breathtaking. Whether you’re in North Idaho or New England, these fabrics evoke the beauty of September and October when the leaves are at their most vibrant.
Introducing the Kitty-Cornered Tool
One of the standout features of this project is the use of the Kitty Cornered tool by Creative Grids. This tool is a game-changer for quilters, allowing you to create intricate blocks with ease. While it may seem daunting at first, the Kitty Cornered tool simplifies the process, making it accessible even for beginners.
Breaking Down the Block
To help you get started, we’ve broken down the block into manageable steps. Here’s a quick overview of the process:
Cutting the Fabric: Begin by cutting your fabric into rectangles and squares. The center and corners of the block are straightforward, but the real magic happens with the pieced sections.
Creating the Stem: Start with a square of fabric and cut it corner to corner. Then, piece a small strip of your autumn fabric inside. This creates the stem of the leaf, adding a beautiful touch of color.
Snowballing the Corners: For the corners, you’ll use a technique called snowballing. Draw a line from corner to corner on a square of fabric, sew along the line, and then press it away. This creates the points of the leaf.
Using the Kitty Cornered Tool: This is where the Kitty Cornered tool comes into play. Follow the instructions on the tool to cut and piece the fabric. The tool is designed to make two blocks at a time, so you’ll have extra pieces for future projects.
Step-by-Step with the Kitty Cornered Tool
Let’s dive deeper into using the Kitty Cornered tool. The tool is divided into several steps, each clearly marked on the tool itself. Here’s a closer look at each step:
Step One: Fold your fabric diagonally and place the fold on the dashed line of the tool. This creates the first cut, which will be used for two blocks.
Step Two: Place the fabrics right sides together and use the tool to make the second cut. This creates the mirrored pieces needed for the block.
Step Three: Rotate the fabric and use the tool to make the final cut. This step ensures that the pieces fit together perfectly.
Trimming: After piecing the fabric, use the tool to trim the block to the correct size. This ensures that your block is accurate and ready to be sewn into the table runner.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Use Sizing: Adding sizing to your fabric before cutting and piecing can improve accuracy and make the fabric easier to work with.
- Press Carefully: Press your seams carefully to ensure that the pieces fit together perfectly.
- Pin Strategically: When sewing the pieces together, pin at the intersections to keep the seams aligned.
- Follow the Instructions: The instructions that come with the Kitty Cornered tool are detailed and easy to follow. Keep them handy and refer to them as needed.
Bringing It All Together
Once you’ve created all the blocks, it’s time to assemble the table runner. Follow the pattern instructions for layout and assembly. The result is a stunning table runner that showcases the beauty of autumn and your quilting skills.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Maple Leaf Table Runner is a rewarding project that brings the beauty of fall into your home. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can create a piece that you’ll be proud to display year after year. The Kitty Cornered tool by Creative Grids makes the process easier and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the joy of quilting.
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